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WI underage drinking bill becomes law

MADISON, WI (AP)--   Wisconsin Governor Scott Walker has signed a bill aimed at curbing underage drinking. 

The so-called "Brown Jug bill" creates an additional $1,000 fine for those under age 21 who buy or drink alcohol.

The measure gives bars the ability to report underage drinkers to police and then take them to court.  The underage drinker would be required to pay the business owner $1,000 if found guilty. The fine would be in addition to the $250 to $1,000 fine an underage drinker would receive from law enforcement.

The Capital Times reports the Tavern League of Wisconsin is pleased with Walker's decision to sign the bill.

Opponents say fines were already in place for underage drinkers.

The bill is named after an Alaskan bar that had a similar law passed.